Xavier High School’s advance toward a more global educational perspective came to life this past August as four international students were welcomed into the hallways of 16th street as members of eXchange, Xavier’s new International Exchange and Immersion Program.

Xavier High School and Sant Ignasi-Sarrià (Barcelona, Spain)/Leone XIII (Milan, Italy) have begun an international exchange for the start of the 2014-2015 academic year. Sant Ignasi-Sarrià and Leone XIII are both premier Jesuit schools that encourage global education. The students from Barcelona, Spain will spend approximately five weeks in the U.S. and the students from Milan, Italy will be spending the entire first semester in the U.S. During that time the students will live with a family from the Xavier community and attend classes at Xavier High School. The hope of the program is to give these students the opportunity to experience life in the U.S., grow in their understanding of North American family life, attend regular classes at Xavier, make friends, visit sites in the New York City area, try their hand at a variety of extra-curricular activities and most importantly, learn and embody the ideals, values and mission of Xavier High School.

Mr. James Cappabianca ’05, coordinator of eXchange, commented, “Students, faculty and the larger Xavier community will have a chance to embody the values of cross-cultural exchange, collaboration, and partnership. This ‘bridge’ that will be created by welcoming students from other Jesuit schools around the world will ensure that the mission and vision of St. Ignatius, St. Francis Xavier, and the Society is extended and strengthened.”

eXchange will incorporate cultural, social, religious, and service opportunities/experiences along with the required academic course of study. At the heart of this approach toward Xavier's student exchange will be cura personalis; Xavier will support the growth of - and be committed to - each student welcomed into the Xavier community and every student Xavier approves to be sent abroad.

The goal and mission of eXchange is essentially three fold: (a) educational – student-to-student connection, collaboration and partnership, as well as an awareness and adoption of alternative, multi-faceted approaches to learning and an enhanced interest in global issues and concerns; (b) personal – shared experiences academically, socially and culturally. Additionally, a sense of accomplishment upon completion that encourages students to develop independent opinions, make informed decisions and strive to attain the magis – excellence in all areas, central in Ignatian pedagogy; (c) institutional – the sharing of new and innovative educational programs and styles of learning among entire school communities. This would be the global bridge/network that connects teachers, students, schools and alumni.

For more information about eXchange, please contact Mr. James R. Cappabianca ’05, coordinator of eXchange, at cappabiancaj@xavierhs.org.